In a bid to address the pressing healthcare needs of rural populations, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) recently conducted a free medical outreach in the Nkata Ibeku rural community situated within the Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.

This altruistic endeavor, spearheaded by the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) of the Corps, aimed to leverage the expertise of corps medical personnel along with medical equipment and supplies generously donated by compassionate Nigerians to deliver essential medical services to underserved communities.

Mrs. Ufuoma Dick-Iruenabere, the Abia State Coordinator of NYSC, emphasized the significance of the initiative, describing it as the Corps’ commitment to giving back to its host communities. She underscored the collaborative effort between NYSC and relevant health authorities in the state to ensure the safety and welfare of both corps members and beneficiaries throughout the outreach program.

“The objective of the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers is to mobilize corps medical personnel to provide health interventions encompassing diagnosis, treatment, referrals, and preventive measures, thereby enhancing the overall well-being of rural dwellers within our communities,” stated Dick-Iruenabere.

She elaborated on the comprehensive range of medical services provided during the outreach, including general medical consultations, basic health checks, dental care, eye screenings, immunizations, and health education sessions—all offered free of charge. This concerted effort aimed to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare expenses on rural residents and enhance the overall health outcomes in the community.

Dick-Iruenabere expressed gratitude to the sponsors for their invaluable contributions of drugs, materials, and funds, which facilitated the success of the outreach program.

In his remarks, Hon. Austin Nmeregini, Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly and a sponsor of the initiative, commended the corps members for their patriotic endeavor. He highlighted the initiative’s role in complementing the government’s efforts to provide quality healthcare services to constituents, urging community members to capitalize on the outreach to improve their health status.

Beneficiaries of the outreach, including Mr. Obioma Ogbonna and Madam Josephine Nwoko, expressed heartfelt appreciation to NYSC for extending vital healthcare services to their community. Dr. Ubong Okon, leader of the NYSC team, reiterated their commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to rural populations, underscoring the passion driving their noble cause.